Recently came across this article, which in turn reminded me of the 'Depressive' bout I suffered from earlier on in my diagnosis of having an MPN. At that time, I was also being treated w/ Interferon Alpha after not being able to tolerate HU at all...
It probably also bears mentioning, that I was quite depressed and extremely disappointed that all my plans to work abroad after 5 years of studying came to a screaming halt, because of my MPN diagnosis...
However, on the Interferon Alpha, it rapidly grew worse in my own case. Hence, this article made for some interesting findings in my view
The Abstract states the following, (see below), however, I would strongly suggest that people read the entire article in order to glean a more comprehensive appreciation of the findings it endeavours to deliver... (The Link is provided in the Reference below)
Thanks Steve for posting, this is a very important theme and one we should probably all explore much more as part of our general well-being. My MPN has affected me on many levels, anxiety, fear, self confidence relationships etc. I am fortunate that in Germany Psychotherapy is readily accessible and fully funded by the state.
I have seen an excellent therapist regularly for two years, that’s how l cope.
I also think diet excercise good Social networks,understanding treatments and impact all help. It would be good to perhaps have a webinar on this theme ?
Thanks for your reply Post, and interest in this Topic, and I couldn't agree w/ you more... I wonder if we could find someone in the field of Psychotherapy, who might like to Join us for an 'Impromptu' ZOOM Cafe Discussion(?)
Not sure what the time differences are at the present between our two countries, but hopefully we might find an appropriate 'Time' division suitable to our needs...
In my own experience, there's very little doubt that 'Depression' plays a larger role than perhaps we might give it credit for, and of course, that can definitely adversely affect our 'Quality of Life' into our MPN management over the journey etc.
Having an 'Integrated' and more holistic approach to our MPNs, is I believe the best way to manage over the course of our illness, in my view...
I have little doubt that Hunter will disagree w/ our sentiments, and hopefully, perhaps a few more MPNers too...
hi Dovme, we did have talk from the clinical psychologist at Guy's Hospital at the virtual forum we held on 1st August, Dr Abbie Wickham, who spoke about 'looking after yourself and bridging back to the new normal', it might help. You can view is via our website mpnvoice.org.uk/about-us/vi...
Also, we will be holding a virtual patient support event from Ireland, with talks from a clinical psychologist, a CNS and a psychotherapist/complementary therapist. They will be covering emotional wellbeing, keeping safe and coping with fatigue and sleep problems. We will be announcing the details very soon, and although it will be an event from Ireland, and some information will be specific to people living in Ireland, the psychological and wellbeing information will be relevant to everyone so the event will be open to everyone to watch and we will also be videoing it so it can be viewed afterwards.
This finding is not a surprise given what we know about the factors that contribute to depression. Depression has both biochemical, circumstantial and behavioral causes and manifestations. Feeling "depressed" is a normal response to adverse circumstance like a chronic debilitating disease with a difficult symptom burden. Symptoms like MPN fatigue can be indistinguishable and exacerbated by the lack of energy seen as a manifestation of depression. Chronic inflammation, particularly in the GI tract, can directly contribute to both depression, anxiety and insomnia via the "Gut Brain" (biochemical and vagus nerve activity).
Our bodies are complex, integrated systems. Things are connected and body systems interact in complex ways. I have had personal experience with this as it related to GI inflammation contributing to anxiety. Despite 30+ years as a mental health professional, I totally missed the boat back in 2013 when my GI system flared and it caused a full-blown anxiety disorder. I did not handle it well at the time. Never again. I applied what I learned in my experience in the MH field to my own life. Coping skills work when you use them rather than stuff your feelings and deny what is going on. It was a valuable learning experience. I would never have been able to deal with the last couple of years without the change in my perspective.
Thanks for posting the article. The link between MPNs. symptom burden and depression certainly makes a lot of sense. The good news is that there really are very effective interventions for depression (and anxiety) providing you seek them out.
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